Saturday, May 2, 2009

HK: Feral pigeon confirmed positive for H5N1 virus

Saturday, May 2, 2009

A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (May 2) that a dead feral pigeon found in Tuen Mun was confirmed to be H5N1 positive after a series of laboratory tests.



Under the present avian influenza surveillance programme on dead wild birds, the feral pigeon carcass was collected on April 27 at Leung Tak Street, Tuen Mun.

To prevent congregation of feral pigeons causing environmental hygiene problems, people should not feed them.

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department will continue to take stringent enforcement action against feral bird feeders making public areas and parks dirty.

"The public can call 1823 Call Centre for follow up if they come across suspected sick or dead birds, including carcasses of wild birds and poultry," the spokesman said.

Members of the public are reminded to observe good personal hygiene.
hat-tip Ironorehopper

No comments: